This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protections against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
l
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
l Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver
l Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected
l Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
You may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications
Commission helpful: “Television Interference Handbook.” This booklet is available
from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.
Stock No. 004-000-00450-7.
Note: If the interference stops, it was probably caused by the computer or its periph-
eral devices. To further isolate the problem:
Disconnect the peripheral devices and their input/output cables one at a time. If the
interference stops, it is caused by either the peripheral device or its I/O cable. These
devices usually require shielded I/O cables. For Epson peripheral devices, you can
obtain the proper shielded cable from your dealer. For non-Epson peripheral devices,
contact the manufacturer or dealer for assistance.
WARNING: This equipment has been certified to comply with the limits for a
Class B computing device, pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules. Only
peripherals (computer input/output &vices, terminals, printers, etc.) certified to
comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this computer. Operation with
noncertified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV
reception.
The connection of a nonshielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will
invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels
that exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the
responsibility of the user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable
with this device. If this equipment has more than one interface connector, do not
leave the cables connected to unused interfaces.
DOC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR CANADIAN USERS
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
sur le brouillage tadiohlectriques &cc& par le Minist&re des
Communications du
Canada.
EPSON
®
EQUITY™ 386SX PLUS
User’s Guide
IMPORTANT NOTICE
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
Epson America makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by
or with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied
warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect,
special, or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of
incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Epson
America, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information
contained herein. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this
publication, Epson America assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Nor is
any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained
herein. Further, this publication and features described herein are subject to change
without notice.
TRADEMARKS
Epson is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.
Equity is a trademark of Epson America, Inc.
General notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only
and may be trademarks of their respective companies.
Copyright 0 1990 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, California
ii
Y705991101
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1.
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference.
2.
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
3.
Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not
use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for
cleaning.
Do not use this product near water.
4.
5.
Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table.
The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
6.
Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are
provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the
product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must
not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be
blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other
similar surface. This product should never be placed near or over
a radiator or heat register. This product should not be placed in a
built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.
This product should be operated from the type of power source
7.
indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of
power available, consult your dealer or local power company.
This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug, a
8.
plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into a
grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are
unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician
to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the
grounding-type plug.
Do not locate this product where the cord will be walked on.
9.
10. If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that
the total of the ampere ratings on the products plugged into the
extension cord do not exceed the extension cord ampere rating.
Also, make sure that the total of all products plugged into the
wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet
slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out
parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never
spill liquid of any kind on the product.
12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Manual, do not
attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing
those covers that are marked “Do Not Remove” may expose you
to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing in
those compartments to service personnel.
13. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
A. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
B.
If liquid has been spilled into the product.
C. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
D.
If the product does not operate normally when the operating
instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that
are covered by the operating instructions, since improper
adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will
often require extensive work by a qualified technician to
restore the product to normal operation.
iv
E.
If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been
damaged.
F.
If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,
indicating a need for service.
Contents
Introduction
Optional Equipment
Operating Systems and Other Software
VGA Utilities
How to Use This Manual
Where to Get Help
Chapter 1
1 Choosing a Location
2 Removing the Protector Card.
3 Connecting a Monitor
Using the VGA Interface.
Using a Display Adapter Card
4 Connecting a Printer or Other Device.
Using the Parallel Interface
Using the Serial Interface
5 Connecting the Keyboard
6 Connecting the Mouse
7 Connecting the Power Cord
8 Turning On the Computer
Turning Off the Computer.
Setting Up Your System
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1
2
3
3
5
1-1
1-3
1-3
1-3
1-7
1-8
1-8
1-11
1-12
1-13
1-15
1-16
1-18
Chapter 2
Automatic Configuration
Starting the Setup Program.
Continuing From an Error Message
Moving the Cursor Block.
Running the Setup Program
.............................
...........................
.................
........................
2-2
2-2
2-4
2-6
Setting the Display Adapter Type
Setting the Power-on Password.
Setting the Processor Speed
Setting the Speaker and Keyboard Options.
Setting the Real-time Clock.
Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration.
Hard Disk Drive Types
Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s)
Setting the Serial/Parallel Interfaces
Reviewing Your Settings.
Leaving the Setup Program.
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.....................
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2-6
2-9
2-11
2-13
2-15
2-18
2-23
2-26
2-28
2-30
2-31
Chapter 3
Installing MS-DOS or Another Operating System
Copying the Reference and Utility Files
Special Keys on the Keyboard.
Stopping a Command or Program
Resetting the Computer
Using a Power-on Password
Changing a Power-on Password
Deleting a Power-on Password
Using Disks and Disk Drives.
How Disks Store Data
Types of Diskette Drives
Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives
Write-protecting Diskettes.
Using a Single Diskette Drive System
Inserting and Removing Diskettes.
Formatting Diskettes
Making Backup Copies
Using a Hard Disk Drive
Using Your Computer
.................
.........................
......................
..............................
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3-1
3-2
3-3
3-5
3-5
3-7
3-8
3-9
3-10
3-10
3-12
3-15
3-16
3-18
3-20
3-21
3-22
3-23
vi
Chapter 4
Enhancing System Operations
Using AUTOEXEC.BAT and Other Batch Files
Changing the Processor Speed
Entering Keyboard Commands
Using the ESPEED Program.
Reassigning the Diskette Drives
Using the AFDD Program
Using Your Computer as a Network Server
Using a Password in Network Server Mode.
Using Expanded Memory Beyond 640KB
Using Special VGA Features
Chapter 5
Removing the Cover
Changing the Jumper Settings
Setting the Jumpers
Installing an Option Card
Removing an Option Card
Adding Memory Modules
Installing Memory Modules
Removing Memory Modules
Installing a Math Coprocessor
Removing a Math Coprocessor.
Replacing the Cover
Post-installation Setup for Memory Cards
Using the CORFIX Program
Post-installation Setup
Installing and Removing Options
.................................
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................
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4-1
4-2
4-4
4-5
4-7
4-8
4-10
4-11
4-13
4-14
5-2
5-6
5-9
5-10
5-16
5-17
5-18
5-24
5-29
5-33
5-34
5-36
5-37
5-38
vii
Appendix AUsing the VGA Utilities
Preparing to Install Drivers or Utilities
Microsoft Windows/286, Versions 2.03 and 2.1.
Microsoft Windows/386, Version 2.1.
Microsoft/IBM OS/2, Version 1.1
Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 2.62
Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 9.0
Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 10.0
Digital Research GEM, Version 2.2
Digital Research GEM, Version 3.0
Ventura Publisher, Versions 1.0 and 1.1
Ventura Publisher, Version 2.0
.........................
Ashton-Tate Framework II, Release 1.0.
..................
...........
...................
.......................
.....................
......................
.....................
.....................
.....................
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.................
Lotus 1-2-3, Release 2 and Lotus Symphony,
Releases 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0
WordStar, Version 3.3
WordStar, Versions 4.0 and 5.0
WordPerfect, Versions 4.0 and 4.1
WordPerfect, Versions 5.0 and 5.1
VGAMODE Utility Program
SETVGA Utility Program
SNOOZE Utility Program
Microsoft Mouse Driver 7.0 Patch Utility
...........................
...............................
........................
......................
......................
..........................
............................
............................
................
A-3
A-4
A-6
A-7
A-9
A-11
A-14
A-16
A-20
A-23
A-25
A-26
A-28
A-31
A-33
A-35
A-36
A-38
A-40
A-43
A-45
Appendix B
Using the Correct Drive Bay
How to Use This Appendix
Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers.
Installing and Removing Disk Drives
..........................
...........................
...................
Setting the Jumpers for Two Hard Disk Drives
Changing the Jumper Settings.
....................
Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Position
Removing the Mounting Frames From the Drive
Removing and Attaching the Mounting Plate
Installing the Drive.
.............................
Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Cables.
viii
........
............
......
........
............
B-2
B-3
B-4
B-5
B-6
B-8
B-8
B-10
B-13
B-18
Removing a Hard Disk From the Vertical Position . . . . . . . . .
The Epson® Equity™ 386SX PLUS is a high-performance
personal computer which offers exceptional speed and
convenience in a compact design. The computer’s 16 MHz
80386SX microprocessor makes all your programs run faster,
even when supporting multitasking operations.
Your system includes either 1MB or 2MB of internal memory,
a built-in VGA (video graphics array) display adapter, built-in
parallel and serial interfaces, an IBM® PS/2™ compatible mouse
port, and four standard option slots (three 16.bit and one
8-bit). These interfaces allow you to connect most of your
peripheral devices directly to the computer, so you do not have
to install option cards. You can use the option slots to install
additional devices, such as a modem.
The Equity 386SX PLUS can support up to three internal
drives: either two diskette drives and one hard disk drive, or one
diskette drive and two hard disk drives.
Optional Equipment
You can easily upgrade your computer by installing additional
memory and adding optional devices. You can install just about
any optional device that is compatible with the IBM Personal
Computer, PC XT,” or PC AT.‘”
You can expand the computer’s memory by adding memory
modules to the main system board. Memory modules are
efficient because they allow fast memory access and eliminate
the need to use an option slot. If your computer came with 1MB
of memory, you can expand it up to 10MB by installing SIMMs;
on a 2MB system, you can increase the memory up to 14MB
with SIMMs. You can add a memory card, however, if you want
to expand your computer’s memory to 16MB.
You may also want to install an 80387SX, 16 MHz math
coprocessor in your computer to speed up mathematical
calculations in certain application programs. Check with your
authorized Epson dealer to see which options are available.
Operating Systems and Other Software
You probably have a version of MS-DOS: the operating system
by Microsoft? to use with your Equity 386SX PLUS. Epson has
enhanced MS-DOS by adding two time-saving utilities-HELP
and MENU-that make it easier to use. The HELP program lets
you display information on the screen about any MS-DOS
command. MENU provides an easy way to run many useful
MS-DOS commands.
Version 4.01 of MS-DOS also includes the Shell program,
which lets you run MS-DOS commands by selecting options
from on-screen menus. MS-DOS version 3.3 comes with the
XTREE® program. XTREE allows you to use on-screen menus
to perform a wide variety of file and directory operations.
You probably also purchased other software; you can use
virtually any application program designed for the IBM PC,
PC XT, PC AT, or compatible computers on your Equity 386SX
PLUS. You may also use powerful 32-bit software-such as
Microsoft Windows/386™-with your computer.
VGA Utilities
Epson has provided special VGA device drivers and utilities
that you can use with certain VGA monitors, such as multifrequency monitors. Using these utilities, you can take
advantage of extended VGA features such as 16-color graphics
mode resolutions up to 800 x 600 and 132-column text mode.
How to Use This Manual
This manual explains how to set up and operate your Equity
386SX PLUS. It also describes how to install options and run
diagnostics checks. Although the illustrations show a computer
with a 5
using a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette drive as well.
%-inch
diskette drive, instructions are provided for
You do not need to read everything in this book; see the
following chapter summaries.
Chapter 1 provides simple step-by-step instructions for setting
up your system. On the back cover foldout are illustrations
identifying the different parts of your computer; you can refer to
these as you set up your system.
Introduction 3
Chapter 2 describes how to run the Setup program to define
your computer’s configuration. You must do this before you use
your computer. You may need to do it again later, if you change
the configuration.
Chapter 3 provides instructions for performing important
operating procedures, including using and caring for disks and
disk drives.
Chapter 4 describes specialized features you can use to enhance
your system’s performance.
Chapter 5 describes some of the options you can use in your
d
Equity 386SX PLUS
an contains instructions for removing the
cover, setting jumpers, and installing options.
Appendix A provides instructions for using the VGA device
drivers and utilities. You need to install device drivers only if
you plan to use extended VGA features.
Appendix B describes how to install and remove a hard disk or
diskette drive.
Appendix C describes how to perform a hardware-level format
on a hard disk. You need to do this only if you have installed a
new hard disk that has never received this type of low-level
format, or if you are having serious problems with the disk.
Appendix D contains troubleshooting tips in case you
encounter any problems while using your computer.
Appendix E outlines the system diagnostics checks. If you are
having trouble with any part of the hardware, you may want to
run some of these diagnostics checks.
Appendix F gives the technical specifications for the computer.
At the end of the manual, you’ll find a glossary and an index.
Where to Get Help
Customer support and service for Epson products are provided
by a network of authorized Epson dealers and Customer Care
Centers throughout the United States. Epson America provides
product information and support to its dealers and Customer
Care Centers.
Therefore, we ask that you contact the business where you
purchased your Epson product to request assistance. If the
people there do not have the answer to your question, they can
obtain it through our toll-free dealer support program. Epson is
confident that this policy will provide you with the assistance
you need.
Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at
1-800-922-8911 for the following:
0
The nearest Epson dealer
0
The nearest Customer Care Center
0
Information on Epson User Groups.
To locate or purchase accessories or supplies, contact your
nearest Epson dealer or call 1-800-873-7766.
Introduction 5
Chapter 1
Setting Up Your System
Setting up your Equity 386SX PLUS personal computer is easy.
Just follow the eight steps in this chapter. As you set up your
computer, you may want to leave this manual’s back cover
foldout open so you can refer to the illustrations identifying the
different parts.
Choosing a Location
1
Setting Up Your System
1-1
Before you set up your computer, it’s important to choose a
convenient location where it can run properly. Select a location
that provides the following:
A large, sturdy desk or table. The surface should be strong
enough to easily support the weight of your system and large
enough to accommodate all of its components. Select a
location that allows plenty of space so you can work
comfortably.
A flat, hard surface. Soft surfaces like beds and carpeted
floors attract static electricity, which can erase data on your
disks and damage the computer’s circuitry. Soft surfaces also
prevent proper ventilation.
Good air circulation. Air must be able to move freely under
the system and behind it. Leave several inches of space
around the computer.
Moderate environmental conditions. Protect your computer
from extremes in temperature, humidity, dust, and smoke.
Avoid direct sunlight or any other source of heat. High
humidity also hinders operation, so select a cool, dry area.
Appropriate power sources. To prevent static charges,
connect all your equipment to three-prong, 120-volt
grounded outlets. You need one outlet for the computer, one
for the monitor, and additional outlets for a printer and any
other peripherals.
No electromagnetic interference. Locate your system away
from any electrical device, such as a telephone, which
generates an electromagnetic field.
1-2
Setting Up Your System
Removing the Protector Card
2
If you have a 5
the diskette slot. This card is inserted at the factory to protect
the read/write heads in the drive. To remove it, flip the latch up
to pop the card out part way, then pull it out, as shown below.
%-inch
diskette drive, there is a protector card in
(If you have a second 5 ‘I+inch diskette drive, be sure to remove
the protector card from that drive as well.)
Save the protector card. If you transport your computer, you
may want to insert the card into your diskette drive prior to
shipping. This will protect the read/write heads during the
shipping process.
Setting Up Your System
1-3
Connecting a Monitor
3
The procedure you use to connect your monitor to the
computer depends on the type of monitor you have. If you have
a VGA monitor (or a multi-frequency monitor with an analog
connector), you can connect it to the computer’s built-in VGA
port. See “Using the VGA Interface” below. If you have any
other type of monitor, see “Using a Display Adapter Card”
below.
Using the VGA Interface
Follow these steps to connect your VGA monitor to the VGA
port on the computer:
1.
Make sure your monitor is turned off.
2.
Place your monitor on top of or near the computer. For easy
access, turn the monitor and computer around so the backs
of both components are facing you.
3.
If necessary, connect the monitor cable to the monitor.
(Your monitor may have a permanently attached cable.)
1-4
Setting Up Your System
4.
Examine the connector end of the monitor cable, and
position the plug to match the orientation of the monitor
interface (marked with a monitor icon). Then insert the
plug into the port (the connector should fit in easily when
properly oriented), as shown below.
A/
\//
5.
If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them by hand
or with a screwdriver, depending on the screw type.
Setting Up Your System
retaining screws
1-5
Plug the monitor power cord into the monitor’s power
6.
as shown below.
inlet,
Plug the other end of the power cord into an electrical
7.
outlet.
1-6
Setting Up Your System
Using a Display Adapter Card
If you are using a non-VGA monitor, you’ll need to install a
display adapter (video) card in one of the computer’s option
slots before you can connect the monitor. (Your dealer may
have already installed the video card for you.)
If the video card has not yet been installed, you’ll need to follow
the step-by-step instructions in Chapter 5 to install an option
card. But first, check the following table to make sure your
display adapter card and monitor are properly matched.
When you are installing the video card, check to make sure any
switches or jumpers on the card are set properly. For example,
you may need to change a switch setting to select color or
monochrome. See the documentation that came with your
monitor or video card for instructions.
Setting Up Your System
1-7
Once you have installed your video card, return to this section
to connect your monitor to the computer. If your monitor came
with its own manual, follow the instructions there. Otherwise,
you can follow the steps in “Using the VGA Interface” above;
just insert your monitor plug into the video card port instead of
the built-in VGA port.
Connecting a Printer or Other Device
4
Your computer has both parallel and serial interfaces. To
connect a printer or other peripheral device to one of these
interfaces, follow the instructions below. Of course, Epson offers
a full range of printers; ask your dealer for more information.
Using the Parallel Interface
The parallel interface on your computer is Centronic®
compatible and uses a DB-25S connector.
To connect your printer and computer, you need an IBM
compatible printer cable. If you are not sure which one you
need, check with your Epson dealer.
1-8
Setting Up Your System
Once you have the correct printer cable, follow these steps:
1.
Place the printer next to the computer with the back panels
facing you.
2.
One end of the printer cable has a 25-pin, D-shell
connector. Position the plug to match the orientation of
the parallel interface (marked with a special icon). Then
insert the connector into the port, as shown below. If the
plug has retaining screws, tighten them by hand or with a
screwdriver, depending on the screw type.
Setting Up Your System
1-9
3.
Connect the other end of the cable to the printer, as shown
below. To secure the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of
the printer port and push them into place.
4.
Plug the printer’s power cord into a three-prong, 120-volt,
grounded electrical outlet.
1-10
Setting Up Your System
Using the Serial Interface
If you have a printer, a modem, or other peripheral with a serial
interface, you can connect it to the serial (RS-232C) port on
the back of the computer.
The serial port uses a DB-9P connector, so be sure you have a
compatible cable. To connect a serial device, follow the same
steps as above for connecting a parallel device but insert the
connector into the serial port, marked with a special icon, as
shown below.
Note
You need to ensure that the serial port is set up so it
functions properly. If you are using the port for a serial
printer, you need to redirect printer output to the serial port
instead of the parallel port. To do this, you can use the
MS-DOS MODE or SETMODE command or the MENU
program. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for
instructions.
Setting Up Your System
1-11
Connecting the Keyboard
5
Follow these steps to connect the keyboard:
Hold the keyboard cable connector so the indicator on the
1.
housing faces up. Insert the plug into the appropriate
socket, marked with a keyboard icon, as shown below.
1-12
Setting Up Your System
2.
You can raise the keyboard by adjusting the legs on the
bottom. To change the angle of the keyboard, turn it over
and flip each leg upward until it locks into place, as shown
below.
-
Connecting the Mouse
6
Your computer has an auxiliary port for an IBM PS/2
compatible mouse that uses a miniature DIN (6-pin) connector.
To connect a mouse to the built-in mouse port, hold the mouse
plug so it is oriented properly with the computer socket. Insert
the plug into the appropriate socket, marked with a mouse icon,
as shown in the following illustration.
Setting Up Your System
1-13
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